Nor'easter Batters East Coast, Leaving Thousands Without Power and Flooding Coastal Towns
The storm is expected to bring dangerous conditions through the weekend, impacting millions from the Mid-Atlantic to New England.
A powerful nor'easter is battering the U.S. East Coast, causing widespread power outages and coastal flooding, particularly in New Jersey, as tens of millions prepare for potentially dangerous conditions throughout the weekend. Thousands were already without electricity by Friday night as the storm began to impact the region with strong winds and heavy rain.
Coastal communities in New Jersey are experiencing significant flooding, with roads inundated in areas like Manasquan. Mayor Mike Mangan of Manasquan anticipates prolonged street flooding, stating, "It’s going to be worse than average." The borough has issued a voluntary evacuation for low-lying areas.
In Sea Bright, New Jersey, Mayor Brian Kelly warned of potential wind gusts up to 50 mph and flooding that could reach up to six feet on some streets. He anticipates the flooding will begin Saturday and worsen by midday, comparing the potential impact to Hurricane Irene in 2011. The town plans to open its recreation center for evacuees.
Coastal New England is also facing damaging winds, with peak gusts potentially reaching 60 to 65 mph on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket on Friday night and Saturday. Meteorologist Matthew Belk of the National Weather Service in Norton, Massachusetts, noted that impacts are likely to be more severe closer to the coast. The presence of leaves still on trees this early in the fall season could exacerbate wind resistance and increase the risk of downed limbs, leading to power outages and debris.
The storm has already disrupted travel and events. Over 200 flights into and out of airports in Boston, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and New York were canceled on Friday, with further cancellations expected for Saturday. Several airlines are offering waivers for some East Coast flights.
Major sporting events have been affected, including the Boston Red Sox adjusting their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs by moving Sunday's game to Friday for a split doubleheader. Additionally, concerts by Ed Sheeran scheduled for Gillette Stadium on Friday and Saturday have been canceled due to the storm.
Public ferry services connecting Cape Cod with Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, as well as ferries to Block Island in Rhode Island, have experienced widespread cancellations due to strong winds and rough seas. Officials anticipate these disruptions may extend into Saturday, though regular travelers to these islands are accustomed to such weather-related delays.
Residents are taking precautions, with some preparing for extended periods indoors and securing their homes and property against the storm's impacts. Utilities are staging crews in anticipation of power outages and infrastructure damage.